"Jaws" Movie Review

Some movies have such a powerful effect on someone that it makes them take action. Or, in this case, not take action. For instance, after watching "Jaws", I may never go into the water again. And if I do, splashing is not an option. The first time this was a few years ago and frankly, I remember it being boring. I am here to say I no longer think that. Yes, it is a bit slow at times but as a whole, that takes nothing away from this movie. Martin Brody is a police deputy on a popular resort island. One morning, he discovers a woman has been killed by what looks like a shark. He panics and plans to shut down the beach, but the mayor just dismisses it as a boating accident. When another shark attack occurs, a search team goes to find and kill the shark but a specialist named Matt Hooper discovers it's the wrong one. This leads to another bigger search involving a man named Quint and together the three men go on a mission to find this shark. With good acting, a good script, and an excellent plot, this is a fabulous film that is definitely a must see.

10/10

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"The Mask" Movie Review

"You gotta ask yourself one question. Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya?" The answer is: not really. At least, I could have felt a lot luckier if this film was a lot better. Jim Carrey plays Stanley Ipkiss, a nice guy who can't stick up for himself. One day, he finds a mask that transforms him into the man that he wants to be but doesn't have the courage to do so. The mask even makes his crush fall for him. Although this all may sound creative, which to me it does, this movie was disappointing. I expected more from Jim Carrey and despite being amusing at times, it should've and could've been a lot funnier. There were only a few scenes when I genuinely laughed and when you have Jim Carrey in a comedic role with a story as wacky and creative as this one, it is no doubt there should be more.

5/10

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"Hugo" Movie Review

I went into this film, not knowing much about it other than it has been much loved since its release last year. And rightfully so. "Hugo" is one of the most unique and captivating movies I have ever seen. Hugo Cabret is a young orphan who isn't quite sure what he wants to do with his life, except for one thing he is absolutely certain of: fixing a strange mechanical man that could not be completed due to his fathers death. One day, when trying to steal from a toy maker, his plan backfires and the toy maker takes something very important to Hugo: his fathers notebook. In his attempt to get it back, he meets a young girl and together they find out that there is more to this toy maker than what meets the eye. Throughout the first hour, I wasn't sure where it all was going but everything couldn't have come together in a more enjoyable or astounding way. I can see how this movie would appeal specifically to film buffs, like myself, because of the numerous direct references to the early history of film and how cinema really is how it is portrayed here: dreams coming alive.

10/10

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"Anatomy of a Murder" Movie Review

After watching and reviewing more recent films (they are from the 90's, yes, but I still consider those somewhat recent), I thought I would watch an old movie. The one I chose was "Anatomy of a Murder" starring James "Jimmy" Stewart, one of my favorite actors. The plot focuses on lawyer Biegler, played by Stewart, and a new case he has taken on. One night after going to a bar, Laura Manion is raped by Barney Quill, the bartender of that bar. After her husband Lt. Manion learns of this attack, he goes to the bar and calmly shoots and kills Quill. Biegler is hesitant to take the case at first but decides to take it, with Lt. Manion pleading insanity. The plot is straightforward which was nice to see, with spectacular acting by the entire cast. I especially liked the performances by Stewart and George C. Scott and I thought the scenes with them going against each other in court were very good. With all that said however, I felt that the ending was quite weak. After spending more than two hours in the courtroom, I was hoping for a better conclusion to the story. Although that was disappointing, I think that this is a worthwhile film to see, primarily because this is Jimmy Stewart at one of his best.

7/10

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"The Truman Show" Movie Review

Truman Burbank leads a normal life. He wakes up and goes to a normal job, kissing his normal wife goodbye, and greeting all of the normal people in his normal little town. However, I cannot say that "The Truman Show" is normal. Far from it. It is the originality and uniqueness of this film that makes it so memorable. One day, after years of this ordinary life, he decides he wants to take action and actually gain experiences. To have an adventure or two. The problem is, that as much as he tries, everything is getting in his way. That is when he becomes suspicious about why the world seems to be revolving around his life. All of this pointing to the fact that he is being watched around the clock by the entire world. This is one of those movies that sticks with you long after the credits. And as you drive to work the next morning, you will be careful to avoid smashing the camera on your windshield.

8/10

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"Patch Adams" Movie Review

There are some movies that are difficult to review because they fall between the barriers of good and bad, with specific reasons for both. That describes "Patch Adams" in a nutshell. Robin Williams plays a man who, like many in life, is trying to find a purpose. After admitting himself into a mental hospital, he finds that his gift is helping people by making them laugh and lifting their spirits. With these techniques in mind, he doesn't quite fit in at his school of medicine. Williams is likable as Hunter "Patch" Adams but there is something missing. Williams' true talent and humor just doesn't seem to come out here. However, being based on a true story, I found Patch's intent and his heart to be inspiring. I was disappointed, though, to find out that the real Hunter Adams was less than pleased by his portrayal. Despite being somewhat inspired, I felt that this movie had a weak plot and, besides Patch, not very strong or likable characters. Like I said, this isn't a bad movie, but it is far from being a good one either.

5/10

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Introductory Post

My name is Josh and I am 15 years old. While all of my friends are playing video games, I am reading movie reviews and watching movies. I have always loved films and I want to get my opinions out to the public. You may wonder my purpose in writing movie reviews, for there are already many film critics. The majority of them are adults and I believe it is helpful to get a teen's perspective on movies, old and new. I am new to this so I hope that I do a good job. I am open to new movies to watch, so if you have any suggestions, make sure and let me know!